Today's automotive landscape reflects diversity in action, and there's something on the table for every type of car shopper. On one end of the spectrum, you've got your futuristic electric cars and hybrids. On the other end, there are choices for those seeking the classic muscle of yesteryear. One such choice is the 2018 Ford Mustang, and it fills a niche for those who want to drive forward while taking a fond look back.

The Mustang nameplate first emerged way back in the decade that brought us lava lamps and Beatlemania, but it's certainly no dinosaur. Available as a coupe and convertible, the car has continued to evolve over the years, and it's grown into a thoroughly modern beast.

For 2018, the Mustang gets a light refresh that steps things up both inside and out. Appearance matters for shoppers interested in cars like the Mustang, and this Ford gets front- and rear-end revisions that impart a leaner, meaner look.

That swagger is backed by an athletic new V8 engine that kicks out 25 more horsepower than the outgoing V8. The engine is governed by a new transmission, with last year's six-speed automatic replaced by a new 10-speed automatic gearbox. The Mustang's six-speed manual transmission carries over from the previous model year.

These days, buyers in the market for sports cars want more than just style and athleticism; they want cars with amenities that offer helpful drive-time support. The Mustang addresses this by bringing in fresh driver-assistive technology like a lane-keeping system and pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection.

Clearly, Ford's Mustang has a lot to offer. But it won't be an ideal choice for every shopper in this segment.

Here are eight great traits of the 2018 Ford Mustang... along with a deficit you should weigh before making a purchase.

#1: Exhilarating acceleration

Kicking out a bracing 460 horsepower, the Mustang's available V8 gets you there in a hurry.

(Ford)

Shoppers flock to sports cars in search of quickness and athleticism. Muscle cars are a unique subset of this species that offer an all-American spin on this tried-and true-formula.

Providing access to the kind of raw power that yields thrilling acceleration, the 2018 Mustang has the goods to scratch your performance itch. The available V8 is the engine to get if you're looking for the quickest way to travel from A to B. This engine delivers 460 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, and it enables the Mustang to sprint from a standstill to 60 mph in roughly 4 seconds.

#2: Comfortable and controlled handling

With the Ford Mustang, agreeable road manners and comfortable ride quality are part of the package.

(Ford)

Many performance cars come with stiff ride quality that will beat you up on daily commutes. And some cars at the top of the performance spectrum deliver power that can be too raw and unvarnished for the average driver to handle.

Ford's Mustang takes a more genteel approach in this area, and this is good news for drivers. The car is comfortable enough to serve as an agreeable companion during daily commutes, and its more powerful variants temper their potency with controlled handling.

With the Mustang, you're always in the driver's seat, and the car's brawny athleticism is never overpowering.

#3: Nice selection of engine options

Ford equips the Mustang with engine options that balance power and fuel efficiency.

(Ford)

Some enthusiasts like to brag and boast about how much horsepower they're packing under the hood, but that power often comes with a price at the gas pump. Many drivers want engine options that allow them to strike a balance between potency and efficiency.

The Mustang's engine selection allows you to pick the performance-oriented power plant that's the best match for your needs and preferences. The best fuel economy comes from the 2.3-liter 4-cylinder base engine, which provides a healthy 310 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque. But if maximum, rip-roaring quickness is your objective, you can opt for the 460-horsepower V8.

#4: Decent fuel economy from the 4-cylinder engine

With the base engine, the Mustang gets over 30 mpg on the highway.

(Ford)

Performance cars are often expensive companions at the gas pump. Those big engines can get pretty thirsty, and fuel economy often takes a back seat to brawn.

While the Mustang's optional V8 won't do your wallet any favors at the gas pump, the base engine balances vigorous performance with a fair measure of efficiency. This power plant has an EPA rating of up to 21/32 mpg city/highway.

#5: Modern technology features

There's a full complement of up-to-date technology features offered on the Mustang, including a Wi-Fi hotspot and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone mirroring.

(Ford)

In the past, muscle cars like the Mustang haven't always been aces at keeping up with the latest technology. If you wanted the performance that these cars bring, you had to make some sacrifices regarding modern creature comforts.

The 2018 Mustang doesn't force you to make this trade-off. It keeps things current on the technology front, offering available features such as Apple CarPlay/Android auto smartphone integration and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.

#6: Attractive, upscale cabin

You can't blame the makers of affordable sports cars like the Mustang for having served up some pretty grim and basic cabins the past. In days gone by, car buyers who purchased these vehicles cared about performance and little else. A gloomy cabin wasn't going to deter them, as long as the car had the chops to deliver visceral thrills.

However, car buyers these days are more demanding, and they expect upscale comfort to be part of the package with their accessibly priced sports cars. The 2018 Mustang rises to this challenge, charming passengers with a tightly constructed cabin that features attractive design and high-quality materials.

With its meaty steering wheel and snazzy chrome-edged vents, the Mustang's interior is just as bold and appealing at its sheet metal.

#7: Customizable instrument cluster

Ford's Mustang is available with an instrument cluster that allows you to choose from 26 color options.

(Ford)

If you like the idea of personalizing the look of your car's interior, you'll love the Mustang's optional customizable instrument cluster.

Designed with the help of former video-game developers, this amenity offers a host of layout choices, with 26 color options. This 12-inch all-digital instrument cluster provides displays for up to eight gauges.

#8: Solid assortment of performance upgrades

Available performance upgrades are on hand for drivers who want to beef up the Mustang's capabilities.

(Ford)

The Mustang doesn't need additional embellishment to impress. But for those seeking something extra, the car offers performance upgrades that add spice to the driving experience.

This Ford offers an available GT Performance package that includes upsized wheels, Brembo six-piston front brake calipers, heavy-duty front springs, retuned stability control settings, and a Torsen limited-slip differential. There's more than enough there to help you Mustang take a big step up in performance.

A fatal flaw

For some shoppers, it's important for a car to meet certain basic needs when it comes to hauling passengers. More specifically, they expect a rear seat that's roomy enough to accommodate adults.

With its tight back seat, the Mustang doesn't fit the bill. Small children will be fine back there, but adults will feel cramped and cranky.

If you're looking for a muscle car that delivers livable space in the back seat, you'll be better served by the Dodge Challenger.

Pony up

Livable amenities and robust performance are part of the package with with 2018 Ford Mustang.

(Ford)

With modern technology features and an attractive cabin, the 2018 Mustang is a pony car that's easy to live with. The car also scores points for being manageable on the road, with reasonably forgiving ride quality.

From the standpoint of pure performance, the Mustang presents an appealing proposition. Its available V8 is big on power, and optional performance upgrades allow you to turn up the volume on the car's handling.

Whether you're a committed enthusiast or simply a shopper seeking a reasonably priced sports car, the Mustang will likely satisfy.